NEW CITY, NY - - Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert encourage all residents and businesses to continue to conserve water whenever possible. Although our public water resources are not at critical levels that currently require mandatory restrictions, drought conditions in Rockland County, along with much of the northeast, continue.

Even after some very welcome rain over the last couple of weeks, rainfall for the year is still more than 7 inches below normal. "Lake levels, as well as ground water levels, need to recover before next spring to avoid the need for mandatory restrictions," said County Executive Day. "Saving water now will help prevent problems next year."

"The options for water conservation may not be as obvious as in summer months, since we're no longer watering lawns and filling pools. However, with a little extra care, we can still save a significant amount of water indoors," said Dr. Ruppert. "Everyone should make the extra effort, and do your part to conserve."

Follow these water saving tips:

Make sure your toilets and water faucets aren't leaking

Never use the toilet to dispose of tissues; flush only when needed

Run only full loads in washing machines and dishwashers

Don't leave the water running when washing dishes by hand, shaving or brushing your teeth

Take short showers instead of tub baths

Consider installing low-flow shower heads and toilets, and high efficiency appliances if it's time for replacements (look for the Water Sense label if purchasing new fixtures)

Use heat tapes to prevent freezing of exposed pipes instead of letting the water run